Cubs' Rondon passes test, Bonifacio sidelined by oblique strain

PHILADELPHIA -- Chicago Cubs closer Hector Rondon could return as soon as Sunday after throwing an 11-pitch bullpen session Saturday without feeling any discomfort in his right elbow.

"It felt very good," said Rondon, who last pitched in a game on June 6 and felt soreness and some tightness while playing catch Wednesday in Pittsburgh. "Everything is normal right now."

There was some concern on Rondon's part because he underwent reconstructive right elbow surgery toward the end of the 2010 season and missed most of 2011 and 2012 in the Cleveland Indians' organization.

"I had surgery before, so as soon as I felt something in my elbow, I went straight to the trainer," Rondon said. "I don’t want it to be a problem, it’s a good idea to go there and see what happened, and now I feel very fine."

The forecast wasn't so encouraging for Emilio Bonifacio after an MRI revealed that the Cubs' leadoff batter has a right oblique strain.

Because of the tenderness of the area, Bonifacio could be sidelined for several weeks past the 15-day disabled list window.